"Actually," I say, motioning for her to sit back down, "I’m going to be making some changes in the company."
"What kind of changes?" she asks, her curiosity piqued. "And more importantly, what does that have to do with me?"
My daughter, always the charmer.
I chuckle, shaking my head. "I’m going to sell some shares, which means I can retire early. I’ll need someone to take my place. I’d like it to be you."
The shock on her face is priceless. Her hand shoots to her chest. "Me?" she murmurs. "Would this be my office?"
"You’re an intelligent, competent, educated, and ambitious woman," I say. "Exactly the type of person it takes to fill my shoes."
"Takes one to know one," she says, her smile returning. "I never thought I’d be the one to take over the company after you retire, but I’m ready, Daddy."
"I've got a strong team that functions like a well-oiled machine," I begin. "Every position has been filled strategically to ensure everything runs seamlessly after I leave. No one needs their hand held. You’ll only need to attend meetings and report back to me. After I sell, you’ll report to whoever buys in, and as senior partner, they’ll have final say on any operational decisions."
"So I’d be second in command?" she asks, her eyes sparkling with interest.
We discuss dates and logistics for a few minutes, and then shake on it before she heads out. As I watch her leave, the fact that she never once asked about my plans after I retire hits me. It’s a stark reminder of how disconnected I am from my own flesh and blood. She has absolutely zero interest in me.
Chapter 36
Meghan
I step out of the shower, the steam still clinging to my skin as I wrap myself in a soft towel. The lavender scent of my body wash lingers in the air, filling the space with a quiet, comforting luxury. I glance at my reflection in the mirror. My arms are defined, my stomach flat, and my legs—strong, sculpted. The daily Pilates sessions with my private trainer are paying off, just like they always do.
Gary isn't just great in the gym, he's also amazing in the bedroom. Too bad he’s not Cal. No one will ever compare to him, but that’s over. It’s time to move on, and today marks the beginning of my reign in my father’s company. The thought makes my pulse quicken.
I step toward the closet, barely sparing a glance at the pile of discarded clothes on the bed. All things I’ve already deemed unworthy for today. No time for anything less than perfect. I swing open the door and step inside, myeyes scanning the rows of outfits, each one a possibility. Which one will make me look the most like a leader? Which will grab their attention and keep it?
At today’s board meeting, I’ll be introduced to the new partner. I wonder if he’s young, handsome, single. Wishful thinking. Either way, I intend to charm him until he’s eating out of the palm of my hand.
First, I grab a classic black blazer, structured and sharp. But I discard it almost immediately. Too safe. Too predictable. My eyes fall on a deep red pencil skirt, the color of power. It’s tight, sleek, and hits just the right balance between professional and seductive. I pair it with a white silk blouse, the fabric cool and smooth against my skin, flowing just enough to highlight my curves.
I stand in front of the mirror, turning to check my reflection from all angles. But something still doesn’t feel right. I want to be admired, not just noticed. I reach for the perfect choice: a navy blue dress with a fitted waist, hugging every curve in the best way. It’s classy and commanding—exactly the type of statement I want to make. When I slip it on, I almost feel like a queen placing the crown on her head.
“Perfect,” I murmur to myself. This is it. This will make them see me for what I truly am. "Powerful." The word tastes like honey and sounds like pure bliss.
Jewelry. I need the right finishing touch. I walk to the vanity, eyes already searching for the pieces that will make me look even more untouchable. A pair of diamond earrings are first, their sparkle catching the light. My fingers graze the gold necklace Hannah gave me forChristmas. A silly little gift I’ll never wear. I find the bracelet I picked up last year, a gift from one of my many admirers. I chuckle at the little game I play: window shopping at a jewelry store, pretending to spot a piece I’m seeing for the first time and convincing whoever I'm with that it was their idea to buy it for me. Works every time. Finally, I grab a silver watch, sleek and bold—and also a gift.
Next are the shoes. I need something that screams confidence, something high enough to remind everyone who walks into a room that I own it. Black patent leather stilettos with a pointed toe. Perfect. As I slide them on, I feel the power shift beneath me. Every step will be one closer to claiming my place in the company.
The final touch is deep red lipstick, bold and daring, emphasizing just how much I’ve got it together.
I finish up by checking myself in the mirror one last time, a wide grin spreading across my face. This is who I’m meant to be. This is what I’ve been working toward, and now it’s mine for the taking.
I grab my red handbag and step out of the bedroom.
Gabby’s in the kitchen making Hannah some breakfast. “Good morning, Hannah Banana.”
“Good morning,” Hannah says, beaming at me. “You look so pretty, Mommy. You look like a princess!”
I kiss her gently on the forehead before correcting her. “Not a princess, sweetie—a queen.”
Then I meet Gabby’s gaze. “Please make sure all the clothes piled on my bed are put away before I get back this afternoon.”
“Of course,” she says. “Good luck today.”
“Thanks,” I say. “But I won’t need it.”
